Neve Tzedek may well be one of Tel Aviv’s oldest districts, but it’s still young at heart! Neve Tzedek or Neve Tsedek, is another district of Tel Aviv which has become increasingly fashionable in recent years. Renovation works have taken place to restore it to its former glory. Built in 1887, Neve Tzedek was the first Jewish neighborhood outside of the old port city of Jaffa. It’s the city’s first suburb. Its Oriental architectural style, combines with quaint, narrow streets with boutiques. All of this makes Neve Tzedek a retreat the modern city. The name means “Oasis of Justice”, and it really is a great escape.

A BRIEF HISTORY

Neve Tzedek was established in 1887, over 20 years before the City of Tel Aviv was created. Similarly, though, it was created by a group of families seeking a peaceful life outside of overcrowded Jaffa. They built low-slung and colorful buildings with expansive gardens and winding alleyways. It was long a bohemian escape. By the start of the 1900’s Neve Tzedek became an oasis for many artists and writers. This includes future Nobel prize laureate Shmuel Yosef Agnon, and the famous Israeli artist Nahum Gutman.

As time went on, though, and the City of Tel Aviv developed, Neve Tzedek fell into decay. The North of the city, developed by the wealthier Ashkenazi (European Jews) attracted many of the richer residents of the south. As they left, buildings began to fall into neglect. By the 1960’s, city officials deemed Neve Tzedek, which was now part of the city of Tel Aviv, a rundown slum-like area, incompatible with the bustling North. They planned to demolish the neighborhood and construct high-rise apartment blocks. Thankfully, however, these plans never came to fruition. As many buildings were placed on preservation lists, a new breath of life came into the area as restoration works began in the 1980’s. The result has been that now it is an oasis of tranquility in the bustling city. It’s also a real estate and cultural hotspot.

EXPLORING THE AREA

Jaffa and Neve Tzedek and enjoy an exciting journey through the wonders of Tel Aviv. With an expert local guide, you will experience a magical morning in the city, with its beautiful views, stories and unique culture. See the iconic views of Tel Aviv and Old Jaffa port, and walk through the alleyways of Old Jaffa while learning about the fascinating history of the place. Then, witness the artisans and art galleries of the Old City and enjoy time exploring the famous Flea Market of Jaffa. Continue to the Neve Tzedek neighborhood, which is the first modern neighborhood outside Old Jaffa, a place with quaint streets and eclectic architecture.